Producers often “set it and forget it” when turning out cows for the fall and winter. Research has shown that calves born to cows with a body condition score of 5 or 6 have more immunoglobulin G in their blood serum after consuming colostrum than calves from cows with a 4 or lower score, writes Karla H. Wilke. She focuses on the importance of keeping cows healthy and in good body condition to ensure that their colostrum will help set up their calves for success and also get the most from vaccine protocols.
Source: Progressive Cattle, October 16, 2024. Link.
Vaccines are not a substitute for proper nutrition and management . . . it starts with the cow . . . i.e. healthy cow, healthy calf ”
INSIGHTS: Wilke’s article is a valuable resource for proactively discussing cow and calf health in the fall. Consider leaving a copy or two at the local coffee stop.
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